What is Polycarbonate (PC)? | High Performance Polymer USA | Polymer-Plastic Specialists

Polycarbonate (PC) is a type of polymer that is made from monomers called phosgene and bisphenol A. It is a synthetic polymer that is known for its excellent mechanical and thermal properties, as well as its good electrical insulation properties.

Polycarbonate is a transparent, amorphous polymer that has a high melting temperature and a high modulus of elasticity. It has excellent impact resistance and is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, bases, and organic solvents. It is also resistant to UV radiation and weathering, making it a good choice for outdoor applications.

Polycarbonate is a versatile material that is used in a wide range of applications, including the aerospace, automotive, and electronics industries. It is also used in the production of seals, gaskets, and other sealing products, due to its excellent chemical resistance and low coefficient of friction.

Polycarbonate - Key Properties

There are several types of polycarbonates, including bisphenol A polycarbonate (PC-A), bisphenol F polycarbonate (PC-F), and bisphenol S polycarbonate (PC-S). Each type of polycarbonate has its own unique properties and is used in different applications. For example, PC-A is a strong and tough material that is used in applications where high strength and toughness are required, while PC-F is a more flexible and elastic material that is used in applications where flexibility and elasticity are required.

Key properties of polycarbonate include:

High strength and toughness: Polycarbonate has a high modulus of elasticity and excellent impact resistance, making it a strong and tough material.

High melting temperature: Polycarbonate has a high melting temperature, making it suitable for use in high temperature applications.

Good chemical resistance: Polycarbonate is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, bases, and organic solvents, making it a suitable choice for use in harsh environments.

Good electrical insulation properties: Polycarbonate has good electrical insulation properties, making it suitable for use in electrical and electronic applications.

Transparent: Polycarbonate is transparent, making it suitable for use in applications where transparency is desired.

UV resistant: Polycarbonate is resistant to UV radiation, making it suitable for use in outdoor applications.

Weather resistant: Polycarbonate is resistant to weathering, making it suitable for use in outdoor applications.

These properties make polycarbonate a versatile material that is used in a wide range of applications where its excellent mechanical and thermal properties, as well as its good electrical insulation properties and excellent chemical resistance, make it a suitable choice.

Common Applications

common applications for polycarbonate include:

Aerospace industry: Polycarbonate is used in the aerospace industry for the production of aircraft windows, canopy covers, and other components that are exposed to harsh environments. Its excellent impact resistance, chemical resistance, and UV resistance make it a suitable choice for these applications.

Automotive industry: Polycarbonate is used in the automotive industry for the production of car windows, headlights, and other components that are exposed to harsh environments. Its excellent impact resistance, chemical resistance, and UV resistance make it a suitable choice for these applications.

Electronics industry: Polycarbonate is used in the electronics industry for the production of electronic components, such as circuit boards, connectors, and switches. Its good electrical insulation properties and chemical resistance make it a suitable choice for these applications.

Medical industry: Polycarbonate is used in the medical industry for the production of medical devices, such as syringes, tubing, and other components that are exposed to harsh environments. Its excellent impact resistance, chemical resistance, and UV resistance make it a suitable choice for these applications.

Construction industry: Polycarbonate is used in the construction industry for a variety of applications, including the production of roofing membranes, window frames, and other building components. Its excellent chemical resistance and weather resistance make it a suitable choice for these applications.

Summarised Properties of Polycarbonate:

Exceptional impact resistance - Ideal for general applications.

Ultra low cost - In comparison with other engineered polymer materials.

Electrical insulation properties - Great for fastening electrical components.

Good weight to strength ratio - Specific gravity (1.20).
- Operation temperature up to 115°C
- Low weight Flame resistance (UL94 V-2)
- Abrasion resistance
- Hydrolysis resistance
- Non-Magnetic
- Low thermal conductivity
- Non-Corrosive
- Shock resistance